Food prices

In August, agricultural exports were about 20% lower than the same time a year ago, according to the Commerce Department. That's because export volumes have fallen, and ag prices are coming off of recent highs.

While the White House is asking for more money for the Women, Infants, and Children program, a House bill would reduce WIC funds.

And consumers of all income levels are adopting creative strategies to make their dollars stretch farther.

Food inflation is a major complaint, but some farmers and companies say market forces will keep prices in check.

Inflation is cooling, but food prices are still much higher than they were a year ago. Bakery products, in particular.

Millions of people have had their benefits cut by at least $95 a month, at a time when food prices are up almost 10%.

Sam Krouse, co-CEO of MPS Egg Farms, says wholesale prices are down as farms recover from avian flu and consumer demand eases.

Inflation, supply chain problems and wealth disparities remain barriers to solving hunger, says Claire Babineaux-Fontenot of Feeding America.

As inflation pushes food costs higher, consumers are shifting their protein preferences.

Labor Department numbers for September show inflation slowing in some sectors.